DEAN DE COCKER

Artist's Statement
My work is part of a continuing series, "Blue Jackets Return." From the first winged-shaped
structures to the current work, I have been exploring my interest in formal elements by
transforming flat, two-dimensional surfaces into three-dimensional objects. I derive much of my inspiration
from everyday objects such as mailboxes, aircraft structures, wings and propellers, heavy machinery and architectural
works. These objects become conceptual elements, which I transform first into drawings. Then, via techniques
of aircraft construction, I have fabricated objects of inner structures and outer coverings that created
volumetric enclosures. Recently, my interest in racecar fabrication and finishing and collecting vintage BMX bicycles
from the 1970's has led to subtle changes in structure and color. 2009 has
lead me to a return to painting. These paintings reflect my preoccupation with stripes. The
titles of my works have no real meaning, but due to my interest in the
construction techniques of World War II aircraft, I take my titles from the World War
II battles in the South Pacific.